Beirut: During a parliamentary session to discuss the draft 2026 budget, MPs expressed a range of viewpoints regarding its direction, priorities, and political context.
According to National News Agency – Lebanon, MP Paula Yacoubian raised concerns about the budget’s alignment, questioning if it served Lebanese interests or foreign ones. She argued that a government lacking decision-making power on critical national issues such as war and peace is ill-equipped to manage the economy. Yacoubian emphasized the need for stronger public education systems and an end to contractual employment.
MP Jamil El Sayyed criticized the budget for addressing symptoms rather than underlying economic issues. He pointed out the lack of mention of the financial gap and warned that the budget continues a pattern of crisis management instead of moving towards recovery. He also highlighted the insufficient support provided to the army.
MP Firas Hamdan rejected what he termed an “old-mindset” budget, taking issue with salary payments based on outdated exchange rates. He called for fair treatment of retirees and argued that the budget exacerbates social poverty. His comments led to a heated debate with MPs from the Loyalty to the Resistance bloc, necessitating intervention by Speaker Nabih Berri.
MP Georges Adwan cautioned that passing a budget without finalizing accounts would be unconstitutional. He stressed that relying on external forces undermines national security and public trust.